You may be in a situation where making bowel movements or sitting has become more uncomfortable. When this happens, you may show signs of piles or hemorrhoids. The doctors at Digestive Diseases Consultants are your team of specialists who can help treat and prevent your painful hemorrhoids in Bourbonnais and New Lenox, IL.

What Is a Hemorrhoid?

It is a swollen vein that occurs around the anus or in the lower rectum. They often make their presence known by various levels of discomfort and can make passing your stool or sitting too painful. Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum but are usually painless. The only time you can see them is if they push through the anal opening. You may notice painless bleeding after having a bowel movement.

However, external hemorrhoids are usually the ones that are more painful and discomforting. External ones can itch, bleed, and form under the skin around the anus. They also cause the area to swell.

When Should You Seek Medical Care for Hemorrhoids in New Lenox, IL?

Hemorrhoids can improve with home remedies or over-the-counter treatments like Preparation H. Unfortunately, you may have extreme cases of hemorrhoids in New Lenox, IL, that require you to visit the team at Digestive Disease Consultants immediately. Don't hesitate to make an appointment after experiencing rectal bleeding. Rectal bleeding may not only be from hemorrhoids, but it can also be a symptom of more dangerous conditions, such as cancer. If the pain and discomfort are chronic and make it hard to function, sit, or work, you need a doctor to assist you.

Your doctor may use rubber band ligation to cut off the hemorrhoid's blood supply. Injecting a chemical solution is another way to shrink it. Some offices may use lasers to seal off blood vessels the hemorrhoid relies on.

What Causes the Condition?

Certain lifestyle factors can increase your likelihood of developing this often painful condition. If you strain during bowel movements, it may be time to check your diet by adding more fiber. More fiber in your diet can make stools softer and easier to pass. Some women often develop this condition during pregnancy, and it can also be a side effect of obesity. Frequent diarrhea or constipation can also cause the veins to swell in the area. If you have a job or lifestyle that requires sitting for long periods or lifting heavy items, it can exacerbate the issue.

Your Digestive Diseases Consultants team is here to help when you have hemorrhoids in Bourbonnais and New Lenox, IL. Stop living with rectal pain and never ignore bleeding. Call our office at (815) 937-5200 for an appointment today.